Say A Cheerful “Hello!” and “Goodbye!”
Speaking to anyone before you’ve had your first cup of coffee may be the last thing you want to do, but the way you begin the day sets the tone for the entire day. The way you end the day can also reset a bad day and close the evening on a positive note.
Ask What Other People Think
Everyone loves to be asked their opinion. When it comes to decision making, ask your co-workers what they think. It can be anything from asking what they think should be discussed at the next meeting to what they think is the best way to handle a touchy situation.
Celebrate And Compliment Your Coworkers
Did someone empty out the trash, fix the photocopier or handle a difficult phone call for you? Is someone training for a marathon or taking a class outside of the office? Let your co-workers know that you see their achievements and hard work in and out of the office.
Return Calls And E-Mails Promptly
We all have flooded inboxes and sometimes e-mails and phone calls are at the bottom of our list of priorities. If you’ve ever sat around waiting for a call or an e-mail, you know how frustrating it can be. Make an effort to respond promptly!
Give Credit Where Credit Is Due
Nothing is more discouraging than feeling as though your hard work and efforts are going unnoticed – or worse – being attributed to someone else. Remember: you’re all in this together! When you don’t give co-workers the recognition they deserve, they’ll decline to be on your side when you need them.
Spread Kindness
Offer to go on coffee runs, change the water bottle, or refrain from microwaving smelly leftovers. There are so many ways to be a thoughtful, kind co-worker!
Avoid Gossip
If you’re talking about someone behind their back with co-workers, you can guarantee those same people are talking about you. If you engage in this type of behavior, you’ll quickly lose the trust of your fellow co-worker. If you have co-workers who insist on gossiping, try to change the subject, remove yourself from the conversation, and busy yourself with a task.
Make Small Talk
Small talk at the workplace can help nurture and develop relationships with your co-workers. Small talk allows you to get to know the people you’re working with. Ask about their hobbies, their taste in music, or their plans for the weekend. Learning about their interests will show that you genuinely care about them as more than just a co-worker.
